25 May 2025

Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) has recorded over 100 households that have been affected by power cable theft in Maun.

The corporation is reportedly overwhelmed by a problem of electric power cable theft and vandalism of infrastructure,  which are exacerbated by a readily available black market. BPC senior customer service officer, Mr Letsogile Ledimo explained when responding to comments by members of the community who accused the corporation for delaying to replace stolen cables from their homes. Mr Ledimo said the corporation was currently replacing cables stolen last year October and the exercise was about to be completed. He said this year, 156 households had reported stolen cables and urged residents to join forces with the corporation to come up with a solution. He explained that it costs the corporation millions to replace the stolen cables, money that could have been used to improve services. Mr Ledimo stated that BPC was exploring ways of addressing the problem among them, using non-copper cables.

Earlier, members of the community complained about copper cable theft in the village and that the corporation fell short to assist them.

They said lack of electricity negatively impacted their lives.

Water Utilities Corporation official, Mr Onkeme Ramaxao also decried vandalism of water reticulation infrastructure, which disturbed efforts to efficiently provide potable water in the village. 

He said water metres were being stolen at an alarming rate and that the cost of replacement was being borne by household owners. The process, he said was rather slow because priority was given to those awaiting water connection.

Mr Ramaxao also urged residents to take advantage of the 50 per cent debt amnesty campaign due to end June 30. The campaign aims to encourage residents to pay outstanding water bills. ENDS